Portable Dehumidifier Buyer’s Guide: What to Look For

Portable dehumidifiers are all dehumidifiers that can be easily transported from room to room or even between spaces like the office and home. Whether it’s because they’re fitted with wheels, have handy grips and handles, or because they’re compact and lightweight, portable dehumidifiers are ideal for those who need to battle humidity in various places.

A portable dehumidifier can be taken with you to a holiday house, cottage or even on adventures in a campervan. In this guide, we’ll break down what to look for so that you can choose a portable dehumidifier that perfectly fits your needs.

For a broader overview of dehumidifier types, common household scenarios, and leading brands, see our general dehumidifier buyer’s guide.

Moisture Extraction (L/24 h)

This indicates the amount of moisture your dehumidifier can remove from the air in 24 hours. Portable models vary in extraction rate, starting at 500ml and going up to 20 litres per day. While the capacity matters, remember that the bigger the tank, the bigger the appliance. Choose wisely according to your intended use and space.

<5L/day – This includes entry-level and ultra-compact models. Great for short-term use in smaller rooms, caravans, or mild humidity problems.
5–10L/day – Versatile middle ground for bedrooms, living rooms, and flats. These units are usually both efficient and easy to transport.
10+L/day – Best for heavy humidity, larger rooms and less transportation between spaces. Offers powerful drying performance, ideal for laundry drying or water leaks.

If your space suffers from condensation or damp odours, opt for a higher extraction model.

Coverage Area (m²)

The size of the space your dehumidifier can handle matters just as much as its capacity. Portable units vary significantly, so match the unit to your needs:

Up to 15 m² – Wardrobes, en-suite bathrooms, and small bedrooms.
15–25 m² – Standard bedrooms, small kitchens, or compact living rooms.
25–35 m² – Studio flats, larger bedrooms, or open-plan spaces.
35–45 m² – Lounges, basements, utility areas, or multiple connecting rooms.

If you plan to move the dehumidifier around, always consider the largest room you might use it in. For open-plan homes, it’s better to size up.

Tank Capacity (L)

This determines how much moisture the unit can hold before it needs emptying. Larger tanks mean less frequent trips to the sink, but also a bulkier size:

<2L – Requires daily emptying if used regularly. Fine for low-humidity spaces or occasional drying.
2–4L – Balanced size for portability and convenience. Suitable for medium-sized rooms.
>4L – Ideal for long, continuous use or higher moisture levels. Great for busy homes.

Look for a water level indicator, see-through tank or full-tank alert to monitor tank’s capacity and know when it needs emptying.

Portability Features

Portable dehumidifiers’ main USP is how easy they are to transport and store away when not in use. They’re usually compact enough to place in most rooms and spaces, easy to move, load into a car and even packed away in a suitcase or boxes when moving and travelling.

Consider these details when doing your research:

Integrated Handle or Grip – Makes it easier to move from room to room.
Compact Shape – Slimline models fit nicely on shelves or under desks. Consider where you plan to use your dehumidifier to help determine the ideal shape and size.
Lightweight Build – Great for carrying between floors or storing when not in use.
Cable Tidy – Allows for neat cable storage.

Noise Level

Nobody wants a noisy machine in the bedroom. However, it’s important to remember that all dehumidifiers make some noise. Choose according to your intended use:

<35 dB – Practically silent. Ideal for bedrooms and baby nurseries.
35–45 dB – As gentle as a hum of rain – great for daytime use in living rooms or kitchens.
45–50+ dB – Noticeable but not disruptive. Fine for utility spaces, basements, and spaces left unattended during use.

Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)

This tells you how efficiently a dehumidifier converts electricity into dehumidification. Higher EER means more moisture removed per unit of energy consumed. Look for energy class labels (A, A+, etc.) where applicable. Models with eco modes or inverter motors can further reduce electricity usage.

A dehumidifier with a timer or humidistat will also cut energy waste by operating only when needed.

Rated Power Consumption

Most portable models range from 150W to 600W, depending on size and extraction power. Smaller units (under 5L/day) use less energy but may need to run longer. Larger units use more power but finish the job faster.

If you’re concerned about high electricity bills, choose a model with an auto-stop feature or smart scheduling. This will allow you to run the dehumidifier only when you need it.

Filter Type

Some dehumidifiers come fitted with filters that help trap dust, pet hair, and airborne particles. This ensures that the air is released drier, and also cleaner. Look for:

Washable Dust Filters – Easy to remove and rinse. Most common in portable units.
HEPA or Antibacterial Filters – Help purify air; great for allergy-prone households.
Tool-Free Access – Cleaning and changing filters is easier and quicker.

Clean filters monthly to maintain performance and air quality.

Operating Temperature Range

Portable dehumidifiers perform best in warm environments, but some models are built for versatility.

Standard Range (15–35°C) – This is the standard operating temperature for dehumidifiers. Ideal for most home environments.
Cold-Ready Models (<10°C) – These may feature auto-defrost or use desiccant technology. Perfect for basements, garages, or unheated conservatories.

If you live in a cooler climate, avoid Peltier-only units unless specifically rated for cold use.

Humidistat Control

This feature helps you set a desired humidity level, and the unit will maintain it automatically. Humidistat control prevents over-drying, saves energy, and helps maintain a comfortable environment without you lifting a finger.

Manual Dial – Budget-friendly and easy to use.
Digital Display – More precise, often shows current humidity and allows for one-touch adjustments.

Auto Shut-off (Tank Full)

This is a must-have feature in small dehumidifiers. It stops the unit when the tank is full to prevent leaks and is often combined with a full tank indicator – usually a glowing LED light or illuminated water tank. This way, you’re always reminded to empty the water tank and can maximise the dehumidifier’s use.

Smart/App Connectivity + App Features

Many models now include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. What features you’ll be able to use via your phone depends on the model and manufacturer. These usually include:

Remote Control – Turn the unit on/off remotely and adjust settings from your phone.
Humidity Alerts – Get notified if moisture rises suddenly.
24/7 Support – You might be able to get customer support via the app.

Extra Features

Feature	Best For
Timer/Scheduling Options	Saving energy and running only when you need it.
Oscillation	Even airflow distribution in irregular rooms.
Continuous Drain Option	No need to empty the water tank manually. Allows for nonstop operation into a drain, although this is not common with small dehumidifiers.
Auto Restart	If the power cuts out, this feature ensures the unit resumes its previous settings automatically.
Traffic Light Humidity Sensor	Some models display humidity levels in colour codes: Green = Good Amber = Moderate Red = High Handy for at-a-glance monitoring.
Child Lock	Locks the controls to prevent little fingers from fiddling.

Refrigerant Type

Portable refrigerant-based models often use environmentally safer gases like R290 or R134a. If eco-friendliness matters, check the refrigerant type:

R290 – Natural refrigerant, low GWP (Global Warming Potential). Increasingly used in modern energy-efficient models.
R134a – Common but with higher GWP.

Laundry Mode

Many portable dehumidifiers now include a laundry or drying mode designed to speed up air drying clothes. This mode typically increases fan speed and operates continuously until switched off. It’s great for winter months or flats without outdoor drying options, and it helps prevent a damp smell.

Look for a dedicated button, icon or mode on the control panel.

Humidistat Display

Digital humidistats show the current room humidity and allow you to set target levels. They:

Provide precision control
Help reduce energy costs
Often include colour indicators or backlit screens

This is particularly useful if you’re managing humidity for health reasons, like asthma or allergies.

Color Options, Tank Material, Tank Positioning

Portability doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Look for:

Neutral Colors – White, grey or black tones blend into modern homes.
Clear Tanks – Make it easier to check water levels at a glance.
Front or Side Access – Easier to remove and replace water tanks than rear-fitted ones.

Matte or textured finishes help resist fingerprints and smudges.

Leading Manufacturers Overview

Meaco

Best for: Smart, quiet tech | Bedroom use

Meaco specialises in quiet, efficient machines that blend seamlessly into modern homes. Their “ABC” range is particularly popular in noise-sensitive spaces.

Near-silent (as low as 35 dB)
Digital displays with target humidity
Low power consumption with timer modes
Some models offer continuous drainage

Cons: Higher price tag – but you get premium features and support.

Pro Breeze

Best for: Affordable everyday use

Pro Breeze is one of the most popular names in compact dehumidifiers. Their models are designed for damp homes, with reliable features in a user-friendly form.

Commonly includes 500ml to 2L/day extraction rates
Lightweight, plug-and-go design
Excellent for bathrooms, bedrooms, and caravans
Budget-friendly without sacrificing core features

Cons: Expect basic features only and plastic shells – no smart functions or advanced filtration.

De’Longhi

Best for: Stylish, high-quality design | Laundry features

Known for their robust, Italian-designed appliances, De’Longhi offers premium models with thoughtful features and elegant looks.

Excellent laundry-drying modes
Sleek, durable housings with large tanks
Built-in digital humidistats
Great for stylish homes needing powerful drying

Cons: Premium price; larger footprint.

EcoAir

Best for: Year-round reliability | Cold room performance

EcoAir specialises in desiccant dehumidifiers that excel in cooler conditions. Their models are great for utility rooms, garages, and winter homes.

Works well in low temperatures
Quiet operation with air-purifying filters
Strong extraction even in unheated spaces
Well-suited for UK winters

Cons: Uses more energy than refrigerant or Peltier models.

FAQs

Can I move my portable dehumidifier between rooms?

Yes! That’s exactly what they’re designed for. Just make sure to empty the tank first and unplug before moving.

Are portable dehumidifiers suitable for basements or cold garages?

Some are. Look for desiccant models or refrigerant ones with auto-defrost and low-temp ratings.

How much energy do portable dehumidifiers use?

Depending on size, anywhere from 150W to 600W. Choose models with eco settings or humidistats to save energy.

Will it help dry laundry indoors?

It depends on the size and extraction rate. Look for a dedicated Laundry Mode to get the best results.

Do I need to clean the filter regularly?

Yes. For most models, a quick rinse every 2–4 weeks will keep things running smoothly.

Can I use my small dehumidifier non-stop?

Yes, if it has a continuous drainage option. If you need to leave the dehumidifier unattended for a longer period of time, consider this feature before purchasing.